The Kano State Police Command has announced strict movement restrictions and banned vigilante groups from polling units ahead of the Saturday by-elections and re-run elections in four local government areas.
According to a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa on Thursday, the restrictions will be enforced in Ghari, Tsanyawa, Bagwai, and Shanono LGAs starting from midnight on Friday, August 15, until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 16.
Police Commissioner Ibrahim Adamu Bakori said the measures aim to ensure a peaceful, free, fair, and transparent election process.
During the restriction period, the movement of all motor vehicles, tricycles, and motorcycles will be banned except for essential services such as ambulances, fire service vehicles, and those carrying electoral officers and accredited observers.
The police also warned that only eligible voters and officially recognized party agents will be allowed at polling units. Items such as weapons, political party-branded clothes, and any form of loitering near polling stations are strictly prohibited.
Security outfits including vigilante groups and the Kano Road Transport Authority (KAROTA) personnel have been barred from entering polling units to maintain neutrality.
The police commissioner reassured the public that security agencies will remain apolitical, professional, and impartial throughout the election.
Residents were urged to cooperate with the authorities and report any suspicious activities through designated police hotlines.
The move comes as part of ongoing efforts to ensure smooth and credible elections in Kano State, which has experienced political tensions during past elections.
